True understanding of a sacred text is connected with the cleansing of the soul, as only through inner purity can one see their sinful stains and, by acknowledging them, renounce them.

Inner Purification as Gateway to Spiritual Transformation

True understanding of a sacred text is connected with the cleansing of the soul, as only through inner purity can one see their sinful stains and, by acknowledging them, renounce them. Without this inner vision, reading Scripture becomes superficial because the mind is obscured by the weight of unpurified passions and justifications.

As noted in one source, if a person has an “inner eye” that is clear, they can recognize the shortcomings and stains of sin on the “garment of the soul.” It is precisely this ability that allows for "the deepest repentance, and through repentance – purification and transformation" (source: link txt). In other words, if a person does not see their own flaws, they cannot begin the path to true repentance and spiritual renewal.

Another author emphasizes that genuine repentance is impossible without the ability to "know, feel, and acknowledge one's own weakness, sin, poverty, and wretchedness," which is achieved through deep inner exploration in the light of the Law (source: link txt). Without such self-awareness and inner cleansing, one tends to justify their actions instead of sincerely repenting – and then the sacred instructions remain incomprehensible.

Thus, true sacred understanding requires inner cleansing and repentance, because only by freeing oneself from internal attachments and eradicating self-love can one penetrate the deep spiritual meaning of the text. This process, accompanied by self-denial and humility, prepares the soul to apprehend the spiritual truths embedded within the Scripture.